Navalbased Remote Weapons Station Market

Naval-based Remote Weapons Station Market Size

The global naval-based remote weapons station market was valued at USD 1.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2025 to 2034.

As navies seek advanced defensive capabilities, the requirements for compact and lightweight remote-controlled weapon stations continue to grow. Many naval programs today, the growing trend in modernization requirements seems to be slanted towards asymmetric warfare, where the emphasis is more on multi-role use rather than pure firepower. For instance, in May 2023, Leonardo unveiled the LIONFISH family of gun stations that can be remotely controlled, referred to as “Naval Remote Weapon Systems RWS.” This range includes Model 20 in 20mm and Ultralight in 12.7mm caliber, alongside Inner Reloading and Top models. Designed for multi-role fighters, these turrets are versatile weapons that can be fitted onto smaller boats or used as secondary armament in larger ships.

Remote weapon stations enhance the combat capabilities of a ship, as they allow a crew to fire the weapons at targets from within the combat vessel, shielding them from adverse weather conditions along with enemy shells. These systems incorporate advanced targeting optics and medium-bore infantry weapons to protect ships and assist in sea patrol operations, especially during engagements that are longer than 50 meters.

The naval-based remote weapons station market is integrating unmanned vehicle capabilities, a high level of modularity, and sensor fusion technology, among others, to be compliant with modern requirements. Industrial innovators are developing systems that are compatible with CCC and are equipped to operate in multiple environments. The development of these systems has extended from crewed to non-crewed vessels due to increased platform and vessel compatibility. The industry is working on more efficient power sources and materials that would allow operational activities to remain environmentally friendly.

Naval-based Remote Weapons Station Market Trends

The market for naval remote weapon stations has constantly progressed with the evolution in mission needs. The combination of RWS with other non-lethal systems allows the navy to be combat-ready, control a large group of people, or even combat pirate incursions. Recent RWS models demonstrate outstanding performance when integrated with unmanned units, allowing the naval fleet to be more effective. In the Asia-Pacific and Middle East countries, the bespoke naval forces are searching for RWS that respond to their local requirements. Recent advances in materials science have developed systems that are corrosion-resistant and can sustain extreme weather when deployed at sea.

Naval-based Remote Weapons Station Market Analysis

Due to high costs in terms of development and acquisitions, the market for naval RWS is restricting, which is a challenge for smaller navy forces that normally have limited budgets. The world has witnessed an increase in the development of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, which require skilled human input and investment. However, because of the geopolitical tensions and the various navy programs, especially those in developing countries, this market has great prospects. The market potential is broadened by the growing RWS-equipped unmanned surface vehicles (USVs).

Learn more about the key segments shaping this market

Download Free PDF

Based on weapon type, the naval-based remote weapons station market is segmented into lethal and non-lethal weapons. The lethal segment held a market share of over 61% in 2024 and is expected to grow at a lucrative pace.

• APCs and boats allow the navy to protect themselves from swift combat operations of an enemy. Nevertheless, heavy grade arms such as machine and cannon guns, for instance, 12.7mm, 14.5 mm and 20 mm, are quite, effective in combat during close encounters With these facts arrayed, it can be asserted that there is growth in demand for naval remote weapon stations. Furthermore, precision-guided munitions enhance the effectiveness of strikes against evasive and high-value targets.
  
• The simultaneous integration of various weapon types into a single RWS has led to increased deployment of these weapons in the field. Naval warfare across diverse ranges and against a broader spectrum of threats is facilitated by combining grenade launchers, automatic cannons, and machine guns, as each weapon is highly effective for its specific purpose. This variety of weaponry significantly enhances the adaptability of ships, allowing them to select the appropriate weapon based on mission requirements.

Learn more about the key segments shaping this market

Download Free PDF

Based on application, the naval-based remote weapons station market is segmented into military and homeland security. The military segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 6.5% by 2034.

• The enhancement of USVs or other unmanned surface vessels has been great for military purposes since it allows for the remote naval weapon stations to be used with unmanned aircraft, thus aiding in the defense at a strategic level.
  
• The introduction of AI in the RWS armament located in the section 3 of Remote Force Command Centre brings in better accuracy levels in targeting, improves soldiers situational awareness in the theater and cuts down decision making timelines which is associated with the growth of this market.

Looking for region specific data?

Download Free PDF

North America naval-based remote weapons station market dominated the naval based remote weapons station market and is expected to reach a value of over USD 1.1 billion by 2034. The RWS market in the US has been focusing on the advancement of technology as well as the capabilities of the fleet. The US Navy has initiated the use of artificial intelligence and automation in RWS to facilitate autonomous operations and improve targeting accuracy. There are shifts in market demand towards customized systems capable of integration with manned and unmanned systems, particularly unmanned surface vessels, to enhance multi-domain operations.

Germany's market continues to grow alongside the country’s modernization of its naval fleet, which is also evident in the navy RWS market in Germany. The German defense sector emphasizes remote weapon station solutions that are lightweight, provide precise targeting, and are modular for deployment on naval vessels. The market also supports the installation of advanced surveillance systems and NATO-developed technologies, which enhance Germany's military cooperation.

China’s naval-based remote weapons station market is expanding alongside the country’s naval development and defense strategies. Significant investments are being made in remote weapon systems development to enhance accuracy, automation, and integration with unmanned systems such as surface vessels and drone swarms. Considering the increasing production of smaller vessels by China, it is anticipated that the demand for small RWS solutions will grow as well.

Japanese navy is eyeing into upgrading its self-defense forces as well as protecting its maritime security and with this goal, they have been devoting resources into the expansion of their Remote Weapon Stations RWS market. The country is focusing on RWS solutions that are advanced, lightweight, and compact, suitable for both larger warships and smaller coastal defense ships.

The South Korean naval-based remote weapons station industry continues to grow as the country seeks to enhance its maritime capabilities while addressing regional security challenges. South Korea is developing RWS systems designed to counter multiple threats, particularly from North Korea.

Naval-based Remote Weapons Station Market Share

The naval-based remote weapon station (RWS) market shows strong competition among major defense manufacturers like Elbit Systems, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Raytheon Technologies, and Leonardo. These companies focus on developing integrated systems with enhanced automation and precision targeting capabilities. As global defense budgets increase, manufacturers invest in research and development to expand their product portfolios while forming partnerships with governments and defense contractors to strengthen their market positions.

Naval-based Remote Weapons Station Market Companies

Major players operating in the naval based-remote weapons station industry are:

• Aselsan
• BAE Systems
• Bharat Electronics
• Copenhagen Sensor Technology
• Elbit Systems
• EVPU Defense
• FN Herstal
• General Dynamics
• Israel Aerospace Industries
• Kongsberg Gruppen
• Leonardo
• Northrop Grumman
• Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
• Raytheon Technologies
• Rheinmetall
• Saab
• Singapore Technologies Engineering
• Thales
  

Naval-based Remote Weapons Station Industry News

• In September 2024, Zen Technologies joined hands with Arm AI Turing in unveiling four weapon systems. The systems include the Parashu RCWS 7.62 x 51 MMG, Fanish RCWS Tank Mounted 12.7 x 108 HMG, Sharur RCWS Naval 12.7 x 99 HMG and Durgam Artillery Rugged Camera.
  
• In December 2023, the Colombian Navy (ARC) partnered with Indumil to create ARCMIL, an innovative naval remote control weapon system. The Directorate of Science and Technology (DICYT) and Industria Militar Colombiana collaboratively developed this system, which employs stabilization technology to compensate for the movement of the ship and allow for retaining precision targeting. The ARCMIL has both day and night vision cameras as well as laser range finders. It was mounted on a 12.7 mm M2HB heavy machine gun during Expodefensa185 but is also compatible with a range of other armaments, including 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm, 20-30 mm automatic cannons, and 40 mm Mk-19 grenade launcher.
  

This naval-based remote weapons station market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD million) & volume (units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Platform

• Destroyers
• Frigates
• Corvettes
• Patrol & Mine Countermeasures Vessels
• Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs)
• Amphibious Vessels
• Unmanned Surface Vehicles

Market, By Components

• Weaponry
• Vision Systems

Market, By Weapon Type

• Lethal Weapons
  • Small Caliber
    • 5.56mm
    • 7.62mm
    • 12.7mm
  • Medium Caliber
    • 20mm
    • 25mm
    • 30mm
    • 40mm 
• Non-lethal Weapons

Market, By Application

• Military
• Homeland Security

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa